Replacement Window Glass: 11 Thing That You're Failing To Do

Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and a rise in cost of utilities. window handle replacement glass replacement can be an easy fix to eliminate these issues.

But when is it sense to only replace the glass? This is a less expensive alternative to a complete replacement and you can keep the window frames.

Types

Replacement window glass is a complex process that homeowners and general contractors alike must take into consideration various factors. This includes energy efficiency, security, and appearance. Glass is available in a variety of styles, thicknesses, and customization options. In this blog post, we explore six different types of window glass to help determine which one may be the best fit for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single-pane glass is commonly used in older buildings and in homes. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however, it does not provide the same insulation like modern double-paned windows. It's also a risk in the event of a break, as it can easily become fragments.

This kind of glass can be used to replicate historical designs where the glass must match the design of the original property to keep it in good condition. However, it's not very efficient and should be replaced by a new, insulated window unit.

Double-paned Insulated Glass

A popular option for modern-day homeowners, this type of window comprises two panes glass that are tempered and separated by a spacer that is filled with air to provide insulation. This kind of glass is more energy-efficient than a single pane window and it also helps reduce noise transmission and condensation.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

This option is an upgrade from double-paned insulated glass. It features three panes glass that are tempered and an argon gas or Krypton fill in between for an increased level of energy efficiency. The gases trap the heat in the winter months and keep it out in summer, helping reduce energy bills.

The last two options are decorative and can improve the appearance of your exterior of your home. Laminated glass or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and can be used in areas that might be damaged by weather or debris conditions. For extra privacy, tinted or glazed glass can be used in place of traditional glass. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or designed to enhance a window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is a crucial aspect to take into consideration when purchasing new windows or replacing old glass panes. The thickness of the glass, no matter if it is laminated, double strength, insulated, or single strength double strength, will impact several aspects such as security and energy efficiency as well as the reduction of sound. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are essential to be aware of.

The simplest type of window glass is single strength - which is a basic piece of clear glass. The glass is 3/8 inch thick and used in residential applications. Double strength window glass may be required when you reside in an airport or a high-rise building.

Double-strength windows are made by fusing at least two sheets of glass together with PVB, or polyvinyl butyral. Fusion processes use high temperatures and pressure to create a durable, strong pane of window glass that is five times stronger than standard glass. This type of glass is recommended for those who want your windows to resist damage from flying debris like rocks or balls.

Laminated glass has numerous advantages over double-strength glass, including noise reduction and safety. It is made by fusing at least two sheets of clear glass together with interlocking resin or plastic to form a durable layer that is hard to break. This type of glass is suggested for those who are concerned about protecting your children or pets from accidental falls, and reducing the noise level in your home.

Insulated glass can be made by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an airspace that can then be filled with different insulating gasses to improve the window's performance. This reduces the amount of air that escapes or enters the home, thus increasing the efficiency of energy. Glass comes in a variety of sizes and shapes.

You can tint the insulated glass to add a touch of style or to enhance privacy. It is crucial to remember that the application of tint does not invalidate any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass can vary from 7-10 days based on size and customization.

Customization

Depending on your goals for new replacement windows, you may wish to upgrade the glass to increase the efficiency of your home's energy use and privacy. You can select from options such as Low-E coating and insulated glass thickness and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can cut down on your energy costs by decreasing heat transfer between indoors and outdoors. Some of these glass options can also cut down on noise, offer UV-ray protection and increase the durability. You can also pick tinted glass to add a pop of color or frosted glass to give more subtle appearance.

Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and has no functional uses, but it can be an excellent way to make your home unique. You can choose between various designs and finishes to create an appearance that matches your personal style. You can even choose to have a window or door with a custom shape.

You can pick between single-pane, double-pane, and Replacement Window Glass triple-pane windows with varying levels of airspace between the panes. The more airspace your window has the better it is well-insulated.

Your contractor will give you a detailed description of the various types of glass that are available and their costs. They can also recommend the best glass for your needs. You can ask them to upgrade your old windows with energy efficient glass.

Modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge spacer that insulate the area where the frame meets the glass and a layer of argon gas to fill in the gaps between the panes. These features keep the window warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

While it's normal to pick the standard clear glass, you may also select patterns, frosted, or tinted windows. This option offers a unique appearance and may also provide privacy. However, it's important to consider the impact on the style of your home and lighting. There are also special windows with features that increase security and ease of use like spring tensioners that prevent the windows from crashing or possible damage.

Installation

If you are looking to replace the glass in just one window, or all of them, the process is quite simple. First a professional will clean the opening by removing the old putty and scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter, one near each end, and one hole in the middle, down through the sill and up through the head jamb. Then, they'll inject expanding foam into the sash weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they'll apply an elastomeric sealant to the exterior edges of the frame to protect it from moisture and seal any gaps around the new glass.

Before you begin the replacement process, measure the width and height of the windows' openings making sure to account for the size and thickness of the framing. Also subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame as weather changes. If you don't subtract this amount, new glass may be damaged during installation.

Call your glass manufacturer to place an order with the exact dimensions for your replacement windows replacement. They should be delivered within a few days after your initial phone call, and they will be ready for installation in about a week. Before beginning the removal process, take out any blinds or curtains from near your windows and make sure that you have a clean workspace. It is also advisable to put a sheet of plastic or cloth on the floor in case broken glass falls during the process.

When you're ready to begin removing the old window pane begin by using a paint scraper or old chisel to remove any pieces of wood molding that are fixed to the frame. If there are any metal glazing points, use a heat gun to soften them prior attempting to pry them off. After taking off the old window, use a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves which it was originally installed. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant that matches the windows that are replaced.